Before starting a renovation several details need to be analyzed in order to alleviate future problems. Projects, budget, quotations and labor. However, there is a detail that few people pay attention to: the inconvenience of the work to the neighbors. After all, everyone knows that any noise bothers, not to mention the dirt and even leaks that can happen during a renovation.
Currently, NBR 16280/2014 – regulation that deals with building renovations set by the Brazilian Association of Technical Standards (ABNT) – obliges apartment owners to inform the supervisor all details about the maintenance plan. In addition, when starting the work, you must pay attention to the condominium regulations, such as times and days allowed, as well as rules of silence and cleanliness. With that in mind we help you in this process, we have prepared some essential tips for when you need to do some work in your apartment.
1)Planning
Before the works start, the main tip is to plan. First, ask the superintendent what are the hours allowed to renovate and transport materials, what requirements must be met and on what days of the week there can be no work on the building. From this information, make a project and the detailed work schedule to avoid delays and, consequently, more inconvenience. Finally, inform the superintendent of the probable period of commencement and completion of the works, informing that, in the event of any mishap, it may be extended.
Law of Silence
Noises caused by works are included in Law No. 4,092 / 2008, the Law of Silence, which says that it is forbidden to disturb the peace and public well-being of the population by the emission of sounds and noises by any sources or activities that exceed the maximum levels of intensity set by law. Some condominiums allow work from 7 am to 6 pm, Monday to Friday, and from 8 am to 12 pm, on Saturdays. Others authorize renovations only on weekdays, from 8 am to 12 pm, and from 1 pm to 5 pm. In general, works cannot take place on Sundays.
It is very important to inform the neighbors, whether from below, from above or from the sides, about the beginning of the work. It is worth checking with them what time it would be least disturbing a project, especially if newborns, elderly or sick people live next door. If possible, let them know how long the renovation will take and that you will always be open to talk if your renovation disturbs them in any way. You need to try to reconcile your needs with other neighbors
2) Care
You are solely responsible for all the rubbish and rubbish that a renovation can bring. Therefore, at the end of each day, dump it in the right place to avoid problems with other residents, during the vertical transportation times allowed by the condominium. In addition, check that there is no dust or work remains in the corridors and elevators. Put cloths on the doors and let them know when moving large debris so that your neighbors can close the windows.
3) Specialized professionals
A very important thing to avoid headaches with the neighborhood is, before starting the renovation, hire an architect or engineer to design it. This is essential to not under any circumstances damage the building’s structure. The floor plan of the property must be analyzed to check where there are beams, columns, electricity ducts and water pipes, preventing them from being damaged. The qualified professional must give the planning of the work contemplating the stages, as well as the deadlines. In the design of the project, details of all items should be included, such as the floor and lighting layout, mentioning the number of light points.
4) Condominium authorization
Before the work begins, talk to the supervisor and ask for authorization to carry out the renovation. In certain cases, the liquidator usually sends a form so that the details of the project are informed in advance. It is important to have all the data on hand to streamline the process.
5) Security
Don’t save money when it comes to your safety, that of your family and your home. Even after the collapses of works that occurred without the supervision of a qualified professional, we still have many works going on without any security for those who execute them and for future residents. Everyone knows a professional handyman with extensive experience and who is hired to do a complete renovation without direction and without a plant. Problems will arise, but the way of driving will reduce time and money, you can be sure ”, says the professional.
6) References
Nowadays, it is possible to look for decoration ideas on social networks that make it easier to guide the professional on which way to go. Inspiration will optimize time and avoid unpleasant surprises.
7) Watch out for complications
Perhaps the renovation of a bathroom seems to be simple, but the architect warns that problems may arise, not only in her apartment, but in the neighboring property. Don’t try to save money by hiring the professional handyman. He may even say it will solve, but fixing a problem is more difficult. Other issues may arise, such as infiltrations, unavailability of a product or delays in delivery times. Unforeseen events can be more easily circumvented by a qualified professional and planning before execution.
8) General
Contrary to popular belief, the end of the year is not suitable for beginning reforms. Many suppliers and stores go into recess and only return at the beginning of next year. If you do something externally, such as renovating a facade or painting, avoid the rainy months, such as spring and summer.
9) Change
A tip for those who want to renovate and do not want to continue living on the site where there will be dust, noise and traffic restrictions, is to move temporarily to another location. Box fragile belongings and pack parts that require care, all to avoid possible losses. There are specific places for stocking material. If it is not possible, distribute your sealed belongings in areas of your property that will not change. Rotate rooms that have already been renovated. If you have no way to move, try to be part of the time away from home. Demand cleanliness in the work and organization in the receipt of materials and bags for storage of rubble. Hiring a bucket is an ally to receive rubbish daily at your home.
10) Organization
Keep all budgets, contracts, invoices and receipts in folders to avoid headaches in relation to the scope of the service, terms and guarantees of products installed during the works.
With these tips, for sure, the headache for carrying out the renovation for the owner and his neighbors will be much less.
